The topic of four-day workweek has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly since 2020 when remote work and workplace flexibility gained global attention. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, this topic appeared approximately 3-4 times in different variations over the last 2 years, suggesting high probability of future appearances.
Sample Question Analysis
Some companies have started implementing a four-day workweek instead of the traditional five-day schedule. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on whether four-day workweek is positive or negative
- Support arguments with specific examples
- Consider impacts on both employers and employees
- Demonstrate understanding of modern workplace trends
Band 8 Model Essay
The transition from traditional five-day workweeks to four-day schedules has emerged as a significant workplace innovation, and I firmly believe this represents a positive development with substantial benefits for both employees and organizations.
Firstly, a compressed workweek can significantly enhance employee well-being and productivity. When workers have three consecutive days off, they return to work more refreshed and motivated, leading to increased efficiency during their working hours. For instance, Microsoft Japan reported a 40% productivity boost after implementing a four-day workweek trial in 2019. This arrangement also reduces burnout and stress-related health issues, resulting in fewer sick days and higher job satisfaction.
Moreover, this schedule change can yield environmental and economic advantages. With one less day of commuting, companies can reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs such as electricity and facility maintenance. Employees also benefit from reduced transportation expenses and more time for personal development or family responsibilities. The New Zealand company Perpetual Guardian, for example, maintained full productivity while cutting energy costs by 20% after switching to a four-day week.
However, successful implementation requires careful planning and adaptation. Organizations must optimize workflows, improve communication systems, and potentially invest in automation technologies to maintain productivity levels. Additionally, certain industries such as healthcare or emergency services may need modified approaches to ensure continuous service delivery.
In conclusion, while the four-day workweek presents some implementation challenges, its potential benefits for worker well-being, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency make it a positive development in modern workplace evolution. As more companies successfully adopt this model, it could become a new standard for work-life balance in the 21st century.
Band 6.5 Model Essay
I think the four-day workweek is mostly a positive development because it can help both workers and companies, although there are some problems to consider.
The main advantage is that workers can have more free time with their families. When people work only four days, they can spend more time doing things they enjoy and taking care of their children. For example, many workers say they feel less stressed when they have three days off instead of two. Also, companies can save money because they don’t need to use electricity and other resources for one extra day each week.
However, there are some difficulties with this system. Some businesses might have trouble finishing all their work in four days, especially if they have many customers. Also, some workers might worry about getting less salary if they work fewer days. For example, in my country, some small companies tried this system but had to go back to five days because they couldn’t manage all their work.
Another good point is that less commuting means less pollution from cars and buses. This helps the environment and makes cities cleaner. Also, workers can save money on transportation and lunch expenses when they work one day less.
In conclusion, I believe the four-day workweek is generally positive despite some challenges. Companies should carefully plan how to implement it, and governments could help by providing guidance and support.
Key Vocabulary
- implementation (n) /ɪmˌplɪmənˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- compressed workweek (n) /kəmˈprest ˈwɜːkwiːk/ – a schedule where the same hours are worked over fewer days
- operational costs (n) /ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl kɒsts/ – expenses associated with running a business
- workflow (n) /ˈwɜːkfləʊ/ – the sequence of processes through which work passes
- burnout (n) /ˈbɜːnaʊt/ – physical or mental collapse caused by overwork
- adaptation (n) /ædæpˈteɪʃən/ – the process of changing to suit new conditions
- sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain at a certain level without depleting resources
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- Remote work versus office-based work
- Flexible working hours and their impact
- Work-life balance in modern society
- Technology’s role in workplace efficiency
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.